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Vargas-Costales JA, Rosero CYDLMV, Mazin SC, Candido-Dos-Reis FJ, Nogueira AA, Rosa-E-Silva JC, Poli-Neto OB. Prevalence of chronic pelvic pain and associated factors among indigenous women of reproductive age in Ecuador. BMC Womens Health 2024; 24:388. [PMID: 38965526 PMCID: PMC11223279 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-024-03189-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic pelvic pain is a common disease that affects approximately 4% of women of reproductive age in developed countries. This number is estimated to be higher in developing countries, with a significant negative personal and socioeconomic impact on women. The lack of data on this condition in several countries, particularly those in development and in socially and biologically vulnerable populations such as the indigenous, makes it difficult to guide public policies. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the prevalence of chronic pelvic pain (dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, non-cyclical pain) and identify which variables are independently associated with the presence of the condition in indigenous women from Otavalo-Ecuador. DESIGN A cross-sectional study was carried out including a sample of 2429 women of reproductive age between 14 and 49 years old, obtained from April 2022 to March 2023. A directed questionnaire was used, collected by bilingual interviewers (Kichwa and Spanish) belonging to the community itself; the number of patients was selected by random sampling proportional to the number of women estimated by sample calculation. Data are presented as case prevalence, odds ratio, and 95% confidence interval, with p < 0.05. RESULTS The prevalence of primary dysmenorrhea, non-cyclic pelvic pain, and dyspareunia was, respectively, 26.6%, 8.9%, and 3.9%.all forms of chronic pain were independently associated with each other. Additionally, dysmenorrhoea was independently associated with hypertension, intestinal symptoms, miscegenation, long cycles, previous pregnancy, use of contraceptives and pear body shape. Pain in other sites, late menarche, exercise, and pear body shape were associated with non-cyclic pelvic pain. And, urinary symptoms, previous pregnancy loss, miscegenation, and pear body shape were associated with dyspareunia. CONCLUSION The prevalence of primary dysmenorrhea and non-cyclical chronic pelvic pain was notably high, in contrast with the frequency of reported dyspareunia. Briefly, our results suggest an association between dysmenorrhoea and conditions related to inflammatory and/or systemic metabolic disorders, including a potential causal relationship with other manifestations of pelvic pain, and between non-cyclical pelvic pain and signs/symptoms suggesting central sensitization. The report of dyspareunia may be influenced by local cultural values and beliefs.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Antonio Vargas-Costales
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Central University of Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | | | - Suleimy Cristina Mazin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Laboratory for Translational Data Science, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo USP, Bandeirantes Avenue. Monte Alegre. Ribeirão Preto, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 3900, 049-900, Brazil
| | - Francisco José Candido-Dos-Reis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Laboratory for Translational Data Science, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo USP, Bandeirantes Avenue. Monte Alegre. Ribeirão Preto, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 3900, 049-900, Brazil
- Laboratory for Translational Data Science, CNPq (Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico), Brasília, Brazil
| | - Antonio Alberto Nogueira
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Laboratory for Translational Data Science, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo USP, Bandeirantes Avenue. Monte Alegre. Ribeirão Preto, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 3900, 049-900, Brazil
| | - Julio Cesar Rosa-E-Silva
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Laboratory for Translational Data Science, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo USP, Bandeirantes Avenue. Monte Alegre. Ribeirão Preto, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 3900, 049-900, Brazil
- Laboratory for Translational Data Science, CNPq (Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico), Brasília, Brazil
| | - Omero Benedicto Poli-Neto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Laboratory for Translational Data Science, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo USP, Bandeirantes Avenue. Monte Alegre. Ribeirão Preto, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 3900, 049-900, Brazil.
- Laboratory for Translational Data Science, CNPq (Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico), Brasília, Brazil.
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Blaustein RB, Parker CA, Haefner HK, Reed BD, Haefner JK, Welch KC. Relationship Between Childhood Sexual Abuse, Obesity, and Vulvodynia in Adulthood. J Low Genit Tract Dis 2024; 28:160-163. [PMID: 38346428 DOI: 10.1097/lgt.0000000000000799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study is to assess the relationship between childhood sexual abuse, obesity, and vulvodynia among adult women participating in a population-based longitudinal vulvodynia study. MATERIALS AND METHODS Surveys assessed health status, diagnoses, risk factors, and screening test outcomes for women with vulvodynia. Associations between childhood sexual abuse (CSA) and obesity, CSA and vulvodynia, and obesity and vulvodynia were investigated. A multivariate model was used to determine if obesity mediates and/or modifies the relationship between CSA and vulvodynia. RESULTS Of 2,277 women participating in the study, 1,647 completed survey data on CSA at 18 months, body mass index at 24 months, and vulvodynia over the first 54 months of the survey. Mean age was 50.9 ± 15.8 years. Overall, race and ethnicity were 77.4% White, 15.7% Black, 2.4% Hispanic, and 4.5% other. Five hundred thirty-nine participants (32.7%) were obese (body mass index >30) and 468 (28.4%) were overweight. Physical CSA before age of 18 years was reported by 20.0% ( n = 329). During the study, 22.0% ( n = 362) screened positive for vulvodynia on one or more surveys. After controlling for demographic variables, both obesity and screening positive for vulvodynia were associated with a history of CSA before age of 18 years ( p = .013 and p < .001, respectively), but obesity was not associated with screening positive for vulvodynia ( p = .865). In addition, multivariate analysis indicated no mediation of the CSA/vulvodynia relationship by obesity. CONCLUSIONS Although obesity and vulvodynia were independently associated with a history of CSA, obesity did not mediate or modify the relationship between CSA and vulvodynia in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hope K Haefner
- University of Michigan, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Barbara D Reed
- University of Michigan, Department of Family Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Jessica K Haefner
- University of Michigan, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Kathryn C Welch
- University of Michigan, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ann Arbor, MI
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Wüest A, Limacher JM, Dingeldein I, Siegenthaler F, Vaineau C, Wilhelm I, Mueller MD, Imboden S. Pain Levels of Women Diagnosed with Endometriosis: Is There a Difference in Younger Women? J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol 2023; 36:140-147. [PMID: 36343859 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpag.2022.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE Early diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis affecting adolescent women are important in preventing chronic pain. Our aim was to analyze the clinical characteristics and severity of symptoms in adolescent patients with endometriosis compared with older patients. METHODS This single-center retrospective cohort study in a tertiary referral hospital analyzed women whose first consultation at the certified endometriosis center of Bern University Hospital between January 2017 and December 2020 resulted in the clinical diagnosis of endometriosis. Patients, divided into 2 groups by age, reported visual analog scale (VAS) scores for noncyclic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, dyschezia, dysuria, and dyspareunia. The symptom types and severity in the 2 groups were compared. The young patients with endometriosis were analyzed in greater detail, comparing VAS scores and types of endometriosis. RESULTS From a total of 826 patients, 144 (17.4%) patients 24 years old or younger and 682 (82.6%) patients over 24 years old were compared. The younger patients reported significantly higher pain scores for dysmenorrhea (VAS 7.3 vs 6.6; P = .015), dyspareunia (VAS 4.6 vs 3.4; P = .001), and noncyclic pelvic pain (VAS 4.3 vs 3.7; P = .032) compared with the older patient collective. Similar results were found when excluding patients with hormonal treatment. CONCLUSION Young patients with clinically diagnosed endometriosis have significantly higher dysmenorrhea and dyspareunia pain levels than older patients. By acknowledging and understanding this, early diagnosis and adequate treatment can be promoted. Dyspareunia in adolescents in particular merits clinical attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Wüest
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Bern University Hospital and the University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - J M Limacher
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Bern University Hospital and the University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - I Dingeldein
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Bern University Hospital and the University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - F Siegenthaler
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Bern University Hospital and the University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - C Vaineau
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Bern University Hospital and the University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - I Wilhelm
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Bern University Hospital and the University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - M D Mueller
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Bern University Hospital and the University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - S Imboden
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Bern University Hospital and the University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
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Moussaoui D, Grover SR. The Association between Childhood Adversity and Risk of Dysmenorrhea, Pelvic Pain, and Dyspareunia in Adolescents and Young Adults: A Systematic Review. J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol 2022; 35:567-574. [PMID: 35569788 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpag.2022.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Exposure to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) has been associated with poor health outcomes, including chronic pain. However, little is known about the potential impact on the development of pelvic pain in adolescents and young adults. This systematic review was conducted to explore the association between ACEs and dysmenorrhea, pelvic pain, and dyspareunia in adolescents and young adults. METHODS Medline, Embase, and PsycNET were searched, using keywords related to childhood adversity, dysmenorrhea, pelvic pain, and dyspareunia. RESULTS Of the 566 articles identified, 19 studies were included. There was an association between the number and severity of ACEs and the risk of dysmenorrhea. Sexual abuse and posttraumatic stress disorder appeared to be associated with dysmenorrhea, pelvic pain, and dyspareunia, but it was unclear whether this relationship was mediated by poorer mental health. No association was found for immigration and bullying, and findings were inconsistent regarding female genital mutilation, parental separation, and parental death. CONCLUSIONS Future research should include longitudinal follow-up and use validated tools to assess childhood adversity. A greater understanding of the risk of ACEs among adolescents and young adults with dysmenorrhea, chronic pelvic pain, and dyspareunia could provide insight into the development of these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dehlia Moussaoui
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Gynaecology, The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Sonia Regina Grover
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Gynaecology, The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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The Risks and Benefits of Being “Early to Bed": Toward a Broader Understanding of Age at Sexual Debut and Sexual Health in Adulthood. J Sex Med 2022; 19:1343-1358. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2022.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Engman L, Ter Kuile MM, Linton SJ, Ekholm E, Tuijnman-Raasveld CC, Flink IK. An initial proof of concept: A replicated single-case study of a CBT group treatment with partner involvement for vulvodynia. Cogn Behav Ther 2022; 51:503-519. [PMID: 35960277 DOI: 10.1080/16506073.2022.2086907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Vulvodynia is common and has an immense impact on affected women and their partners. Psychological factors have been found to contribute to pain maintenance and exacerbation, and treatments addressing psychological factors have yielded positive results. This study employed a replicated single-case experimental design to examine a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) group treatment with partner involvement in vulvodynia. Repeated measures of pain intensity related to pain-inflicting behaviors were collected weekly throughout baseline and treatment phases. Associated outcomes were measured pre-, post- and at two follow-up assessments. Participants were 18-45-year-old women, in a stable sexual relationship with a man, experiencing vulvodynia. Five women completed the treatment consisting of 10 group sessions and 3 couple sessions. Data were analyzed through visual inspection and supplementary nonparametric calculations. The study showed promising results of the CBT treatment in alleviating pain intensity in connection to specific pain-inflicting behavior since three out of five participants showed improvements. For the participants who improved, sexual function, pain catastrophizing, avoidance, and endurance behavior changed during treatment and were maintained at follow-ups. These results warrant further study of the CBT treatment, in larger, and controlled formats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linnéa Engman
- Center for Health and Medical Psychology (CHAMP), School of Law, Psychology and Social Work, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Moniek M Ter Kuile
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Steven J Linton
- Center for Health and Medical Psychology (CHAMP), School of Law, Psychology and Social Work, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Elin Ekholm
- Center for Health and Medical Psychology (CHAMP), School of Law, Psychology and Social Work, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | | | - Ida K Flink
- Center for Health and Medical Psychology (CHAMP), School of Law, Psychology and Social Work, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
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Meana M, Binik YM. The Biopsychosocial Puzzle of Painful Sex. Annu Rev Clin Psychol 2022; 18:471-495. [PMID: 35216521 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-clinpsy-072720-014549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Genital pain associated with sex is a prevalent and distressing problem with a complex research and clinical profile. This article reviews the historical context of the "sexual pain disorders" and the circuitous trajectory that has led from the first mention of painful sex in ancient documents to the latest diagnostic category of genito-pelvic pain penetration disorder in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders as well as in other existing and proposed nomenclatures. Prominent etiologic research and emergent theoretical models are critically assessed, as is the latest treatment outcome research of note. Finally, the review points to a number of extant needs in the research and clinical effort, including an integrated biopsychosocial and multidisciplinary approach, randomized clinical trials, targeting of treatment barriers, and expansion of the entire enterprise to include populations that have not been considered. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Clinical Psychology, Volume 18 is May 2022. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Meana
- Department of Psychology, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA;
| | - Yitzchak M Binik
- Department of Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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8
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Iamundo LF, Nava GTDA, Rocha Júnior PR, Prudencio CB, Barbosa AMP. Prevalence and factors associated with pelvic floor dysfunction in university women: a cross-sectional study. FISIOTERAPIA EM MOVIMENTO 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/fm.2022.35133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract Introduction Urinary incontinence (UI), fecal inconti-nence (FI), and genito-pelvic pain or penetration disorder (GPPPD) are considered pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD), and are mainly characterized by poor functionality of the pelvic floor muscles. Despite the relevance of these dysfunctions in women's lives, the demand for care is low. Objective To analyze the prevalence of PFD, in university women, and factors associated with PFD. Methods This is a cross-sectional study conducted at São Paulo State University, Marília, SP, Brazil, with undergraduate and/or postgraduate women aged over 18 years. An online questionnaire containing 40 open and multiple-choice questions about PFD was developed by the authors and a Google form was disclosed via social media (Facebook, Instagram) to the participants. The questionnaire was applied between April and July 2020. Results A sample of 707 participants was included. The average age was 22.5 ± 21.0 years old. The most prevalent PFD was GPPPD, reported by 30.7% of women, followed by UI (16.8%) and FI (3.2%). PFD was significant less reported in the Midwest region compared to other regions (p = 0.015) and significantly more prevalent in women who attended public university (p = 0.038), in women with UI, FI, and GPPPD. The association-test showed that attending public university showed association to UI (p < 0.001), FI (p = 0.008) and GPPPD (p = 0.006). In addition, parity showed association with GPPD (p = 0.032) and to attend health courses with UI (p = 0.002). Conclusion PFD is prevalent among university women and GPPPD was the most recurrent, followed by UI and FI. GPPPD was associated with parity and attending a public university. UI was associated with attending public university and health courses. FI was associated with attending a public university.
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Stout ME, Hawkins MAW. Temporal Relationships Between Pain During Intercourse (PDI), Loneliness, and Depressive Symptoms Among Women. Sex Med 2021; 9:100444. [PMID: 34649130 PMCID: PMC8766269 DOI: 10.1016/j.esxm.2021.100444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Painful sex can lead to increased psychological distress, including major depressive disorder, and the experience of loneliness may explain this association. Aims We aimed to investigate loneliness as a mediator between painful sex and depressive symptoms and hypothesized that women who experienced greater pain during intercourse (ie, more severe and more frequent pain) would endorse higher rates of loneliness and, in turn, higher rates of depressive symptoms at a 6-month follow-up. Methods Participants were 148 adults who were assigned female at birth (78.4% white, 77% partnered, 31.14 ± 10.9 years old) and completed an online, anonymous survey including the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), UCLA Loneliness Scale-3 (ULS), and demographic information. Main Outcome Measure Depressive symptoms, measured via the Patient Health Questionnaire-8 (PHQ8) at baseline (T1) and 6-month follow-up (T2) were used as the outcomes of the present study. Results Painful sex and ULS at T1 were significantly correlated with each other and with PHQ8 at T1 (r = 0.590). However, change in PHQ8 from T1 to T2 was not significantly correlated with ULS (r = 0.024) or any other key study variables, indicating that that ULS was not a significant mediator of the relationship between painful sex at T1 and change in PHQ8 (standardized indirect effect = 0.011; 99% CI = −0.114 to 0.188). Conclusion These findings are consistent with previous studies highlighting that painful sex is related to depressive symptoms through loneliness cross-sectionally, suggesting that future treatments for depressive symptoms among women who experience painful sex might target loneliness. Stout ME, Hawkins MAW. Temporal Relationships Between Pain During Intercourse (PDI), Loneliness, and Depressive Symptoms Among Women. Sex Med 2021;9:100444.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madison E Stout
- Department of Psychology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, USA
| | - Misty A W Hawkins
- Department of Psychology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, USA.
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Exploring Relationships Between Genito-Pelvic Pain/Penetration Disorder, Sex Guilt, and Religiosity Among College Women in the U.S. J Sex Med 2021; 18:770-782. [PMID: 33757773 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2021.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite a growing body of research on psychosocial factors in Genito-Pelvic Pain/Penetration Disorder (GPPPD) during sexual intercourse, there are few studies examining adolescent and young adult women's experiences with painful sex and the effects of religiosity, sexual education, and sex guilt. AIM The purpose of the study was to examine the occurrence of GPPPD among sexually active female college students, including psychosocial factors of religiosity and religious practice, sexual education, sex guilt, and sexual distress. METHODS Data were collected from 974 college women from a university in the Northeastern U.S. We limited our sample to sexually active women (n = 593, 60.9%; mean age: 18.96) who responded to the questionnaire item, "In general, do you feel pain with sexual intercourse?" Participants completed the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS), Revised Mosher Sex Guilt Scale, Abbreviated Santa Clara Strength of Religious Faith Questionnaire, 10-item Gender Role Beliefs Scale, and measures on sexual wellness and practice and sexual education experiences. Data were analyzed using standard bivariate and regression analyses as well as path analysis. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Women were asked, "In general, do you feel pain with sexual intercourse?" and categorized into one of three pain groups: occasional (10%-25% of the time), frequent (50% or more), and no pain (less than 10%). RESULTS GPPPD with sex was prevalent among young college women, with 113 (19.1%) reporting frequent pain and 143 (24.1%) occasional pain (control n = 337, 56.8%). Numerous statistically significant factors were identified, including frequency of sex, ability to orgasm, sensations during intercourse, presence of a steady sexual partner, expectations of painful sex, sex guilt, and sexual distress. Sex guilt acted as full mediator between religiosity and painful sex. IMPLICATIONS Healthcare providers should proactively initiate conversations with young female patients about painful intercourse to identify issues and normalize language on pain with sex. Educators are urged to teach evidence-based information on pain-free and guilt-free sexual experiences inside and outside religious contexts. CONCLUSION Painful sex affects adolescent and young adult women at a similar rate as non-college adult women and while religiosity does not directly impact young women's GPPPD, religiosity does lead to painful sex if it causes sex guilt. Further research is needed into the mechanisms of religion-based sexual shaming and among religiously conservative women who practice abstinence until marriage. Azim KA, Happel-Parkins A, Moses A, et al. Exploring Relationships Between Genito-Pelvic Pain/Penetration Disorder, Sex Guilt, and Religiosity Among College Women in the U.S. J Sex Med 2021;18:770-782.
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Rosen NO, Brotto LA. Introduction to the Special Section on Innovative Knowledge Translation in Sex Research. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2021; 50:17-21. [PMID: 33398702 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-020-01894-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Natalie O Rosen
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, 1355 Oxford Street, P.O. Box 15000, Halifax, NS, B3H 4R2, Canada.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IWK Health Centre, Halifax, NS, Canada.
| | - Lori A Brotto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Jackowich RA, Smith KB, Brotto LA. Pain Characteristics, Psychosocial Wellbeing, and Sexual Wellbeing of Women Diagnosed With Provoked Vestibulodynia and a History of Sexual Abuse. JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY CANADA 2020; 43:447-454. [PMID: 33359553 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogc.2020.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Provoked vestibulodynia (PVD) is a common chronic pain condition characterized by pain at the vulvar vestibule elicited by touch. Both PVD and sexual abuse lead to negative psychosocial and sexual consequences. However, little is known about the wellbeing of women with PVD and a history of sexual abuse. The aim of this study was to characterize a sample of women seeking treatment for PVD who have experienced sexual abuse. METHODS A total of 404 women diagnosed with PVD completed self-report questionnaires of PVD symptoms and psychosocial and sexual wellbeing before and after participating in a multidisciplinary PVD treatment program. History of sexual abuse was assessed via self-report, and women were dichotomized into groups. RESULTS No significant differences were found on sociodemographic variables, baseline psychosocial or sexual functioning between women with and without a self-reported history of sexual abuse (n = 40 and n = 364, respectively). Significantly more women with a history of sexual abuse than without reported other comorbid chronic pain conditions and radiating PVD pain. History of sexual abuse did not affect improvements in sexual distress scores following multidisciplinary treatment for their PVD. CONCLUSION Ten percent of women in our sample self-reported a history of sexual abuse, but the two groups did not differ significantly with respect to their baseline psychosocial or sexual functioning concerns, and both groups reported reductions in sexual distress following treatment for PVD. These findings indicate that a history of sexual abuse does not significantly affect the efficacy of multidisciplinary treatment approaches for PVD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kelly B Smith
- BC Centre for Vulvar Health, Vancouver, BC; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC
| | - Lori A Brotto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC.
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Sexual assault as a risk factor for gynaecological morbidity: An exploratory systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2020; 255:222-230. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2020.10.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Schneider MP, Vitonis AF, Fadayomi AB, Charlton BM, Missmer SA, DiVasta AD. Quality of Life in Adolescent and Young Adult Women With Dyspareunia and Endometriosis. J Adolesc Health 2020; 67:557-561. [PMID: 32291152 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2020.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study is to quantify the prevalence of dyspareunia and its impact on quality of life (QOL) in adolescent and young adult women (AYA) diagnosed with endometriosis. METHODS Eligible participants from the Women's Health Study: From Adolescence to Adulthood, a longitudinal cohort study, were AYA 18-25 years who reported having had sexual intercourse. We included n = 151 AYA with a surgical diagnosis of endometriosis and n = 287 without known endometriosis. Participants completed a questionnaire including the Short Form-36 (SF-36) QOL survey, on which lower scores indicate impairment. Dyspareunia was defined as answering "yes" to having had pain during/within 24 hours following sexual intercourse. Normative-based scores for SF-36 subscales were calculated and compared between groups using linear regression adjusted for age, body mass index, educational level, and race. RESULTS Participants with endometriosis experienced dyspareunia twice as often (79%) than AYA without endometriosis (40%, p < .0001). In participants with and without endometriosis, all SF-36 subscale scores were significantly lower in AYA with dyspareunia than without. For six subscales, the negative impact was significantly stronger in AYA with endometriosis than those without, and mean scores were all less than the normative score, indicating impairment. CONCLUSIONS More than three quarters of AYA with endometriosis and two thirds without experience dyspareunia that negatively impacts both physical and mental health QOL scores. This impairment is stronger in those with endometriosis. Given the importance of relationships and peer engagement for identity formation during adolescence, dyspareunia could be particularly impactful. Clinicians should ask patients not only about contraception and prevention of sexually transmitted infections, but inquire about how dyspareunia may impact mental and physical well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Allison F Vitonis
- Boston Center for Endometriosis, Boston Children's Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ayotunde B Fadayomi
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Brittany M Charlton
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Stacey A Missmer
- Boston Center for Endometriosis, Boston Children's Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan
| | - Amy D DiVasta
- Boston Center for Endometriosis, Boston Children's Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
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15
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Abstract
Vulvodynia is a condition that occurs in 8-10% of women of all ages and is characterized by pain at the vulva that is present during sexual and/or non-sexual situations. Diagnosis is established through careful medical history and pelvic examination, including the cotton-swab test. The onset and maintenance of vulvodynia involves a complex interplay of peripheral and central pain mechanisms, pelvic floor muscle and autonomic dysfunction, anxiety, depression and childhood maltreatment as well as cognitive-affective, behavioural and interpersonal factors. Given the absence of empirically supported treatment guidelines, a stepwise approach of pelvic floor physical therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy as well as medical management is suggested, with surgery as the last option. Vulvodynia has a negative effect on the quality of life of women and their partners, and imposes a profound personal and societal economic burden. In addition, women with vulvodynia are more likely to report other chronic pain conditions, which further alters their quality of life. Future efforts should aim to increase girls', women's and healthcare professionals' education and awareness of vulvodynia, phenotype different subgroups of women based on biopsychosocial characteristics among more diverse samples, conduct longitudinal studies and improve clinical trial designs.
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16
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Rosen NO, Bergeron S, Pukall CF. Recommendations for the Study of Vulvar Pain in Women, Part 1: Review of Assessment Tools. J Sex Med 2020; 17:180-194. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2019.10.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Revised: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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17
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Patanwala I, Lamvu G, Mizera M, Fisk M, Blanton E. Learning restrictive sexual values may be associated with dyspareunia. JOURNAL OF ENDOMETRIOSIS AND PELVIC PAIN DISORDERS 2020. [DOI: 10.1177/2284026519900108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Objective: The primary objective of this study is to assess whether the degree of religiosity or certain moral teachings are associated with dyspareunia. Methods: A cross-sectional survey with 24 questions was designed that incorporated the previously validated Duke Religiosity Index questionnaire, medical and sexual history, and demographic information. The index measures organizational, non-organizational, and intrinsic religiosity. Participants were recruited from Ob/Gyn and Family Medicine clinics and from a large university in our community. Results: A total of 901 surveys were included in final analysis. Among our study population, the prevalence of dyspareunia was 19.4%. Participants were categorized by the presence or absence of the primary outcome, dyspareunia. There were no differences in the scores of organized religiosity, p = 0.73 (2.98 ± 0.47 vs 3.04 ± 1.55), non-organized religiosity, p = 0.57 (2.62 ± 1.71 vs 2.82 ± 1.82), or intrinsic religiosity p = 0.64 (10.53 ± 3.63 vs 10.47 ± 4.06) in women with and without dyspareunia, respectively. No associations were found between dyspareunia and a participant’s current or childhood religious affiliation. However, women who were taught “sex is bad” while growing up had a higher rate of dyspareunia compared to those who were not taught this belief, (27.0% vs 15.3%, p < 0.001). Similar results were found in women who were taught to “wait until marriage to have sex”; 21.6% experienced dyspareunia while only 13.2% of those who were not taught to wait experienced dyspareunia (p = 0.005). Conclusions: While degree of religiosity was not shown to be associated with dyspareunia, women who learned certain restrictive sexual values were at higher risk of experiencing painful intercourse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Insiyyah Patanwala
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Florida Hospital, Orlando, FL, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Georgine Lamvu
- Division of Surgery, Gynecology Section, Veteran Affairs Medical Center, Orlando, FL, USA
- College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Megan Mizera
- College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Matthew Fisk
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Florida Hospital, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Emily Blanton
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Florida Hospital, Orlando, FL, USA
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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Byers ES, O’Sullivan LF, Hughes K. Sexual functioning of late adolescents and young adults in relationships: association with individual characteristics and relationship factors. SEXUAL AND RELATIONSHIP THERAPY 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/14681994.2019.1626982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- E. Sandra Byers
- Department of Psychology, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada
| | - Lucia F. O’Sullivan
- Department of Psychology, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada
| | - Kathleen Hughes
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Rosen NO, Bergeron S. Genito-Pelvic Pain Through a Dyadic Lens: Moving Toward an Interpersonal Emotion Regulation Model of Women's Sexual Dysfunction. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2019; 56:440-461. [PMID: 30252510 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2018.1513987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Researchers and clinicians alike widely acknowledge the inherently interpersonal nature of women's sexual dysfunctions given that both partners impact and are impacted by these difficulties. Yet theoretical models for understanding the role of interpersonal factors in women's sexual dysfunctions are severely lacking and have the potential to guide future research and inform more effective interventions. The most widely studied sexual dysfunction in women that has espoused a dyadic approach by including both members of affected couples is genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder (GPPPD). In this article we use the example of GPPPD to introduce a novel interpersonal emotion regulation model of women's sexual dysfunction. We first review current knowledge regarding distal and proximal interpersonal factors in GPPPD. Then, we describe our theoretical model and consider relevant pain and sex-related research on emotion regulation processes-emotional awareness, expression, and experience-in the context of GPPPD, including sexual function, satisfaction, and distress. Next, we review how existing theories from the fields of chronic pain and sex and relationships research have informed our model and how our model further builds on them. Finally, we discuss the implications of our model and its applications, including to other sexual dysfunctions in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie O Rosen
- a Department of Psychology and Neuroscience , Dalhousie University
- b Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , IWK Health Centre
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20
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Does Self-compassion Benefit Couples Coping With Vulvodynia? Associations With Psychological, Sexual, and Relationship Adjustment. Clin J Pain 2018; 34:629-637. [DOI: 10.1097/ajp.0000000000000579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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21
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Vézina-Gagnon P, Bergeron S, Frappier JY, Daigneault I. Genitourinary Health of Sexually Abused Girls and Boys: A Matched-Cohort Study. J Pediatr 2018; 194:171-176. [PMID: 29273174 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2017.09.087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2017] [Revised: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 09/29/2017] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare genitourinary health problems of children and adolescents with a substantiated report of sexual abuse with those of the general pediatric population. STUDY DESIGN Via a prospective matched-cohort design, administrative databases between January 1996 and March 2013 were used to document genitourinary problems of 882 sexually abused children and those of 882 matched controls. Generalized linear mixed models determined the association between a substantiated sexual abuse and diagnoses for sexually transmitted infections and urinary and genital health problems. RESULTS Adjusted results revealed that up to 12 years after a sexual abuse was substantiated, abused girls had, respectively, 2.1 and 1.4 times more diagnoses for urinary and genital health problems compared with girls from the general population, whereas no difference was found for sexually transmitted infections. Sexually abused boys had an equivalent number of diagnoses as those from the general population for all 3 outcomes. Depending on the genitourinary health problem, abused girls and those from the general population had between 2.5 and 11 times more diagnoses than abused boys or those from the general population. CONCLUSIONS This study showed that substantiated childhood sexual abuse is associated with more urinary and genital health problems among girls but not boys. Early prevention and intervention efforts may mitigate the problems such that they do not persist or worsen over time and into adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sophie Bergeron
- Department of Psychology, University of Montreal, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - Jean-Yves Frappier
- Department of Psychology, University of Montreal, Montreal, Québec, Canada
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22
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Zarski AC, Berking M, Ebert DD. Efficacy of Internet-Based Guided Treatment for Genito-Pelvic Pain/Penetration Disorder: Rationale, Treatment Protocol, and Design of a Randomized Controlled Trial. Front Psychiatry 2018; 8:260. [PMID: 29403395 PMCID: PMC5786827 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2017.00260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2017] [Accepted: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder (GPPPD) not only adversely affects women's sexuality and sexual satisfaction but is also associated with a wide range of psychosocial consequences such as reduced quality of life and well-being, mental health comorbidities, and relationship distress. Evidence for effective treatment options is scarce. AIM This article describes the rationale, treatment protocol, and study design for a randomized controlled trial examining the efficacy of an Internet-based guided intervention for GPPPD. METHOD Two hundred women who meet the criteria for GPPPD and have not been able to experience sexual intercourse for at least the last 6 months will be recruited and randomly assigned either to the intervention group (IG) or a 6-month waitlist control group. Assessments take place at baseline (T1), peritreatment after completion of Session 5 in IG (T2), after completion of Session 8 or 12 weeks after randomization (T3), and after 6 months (T4). Data will be analyzed on an intention-to-treat and a completer basis. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome will be sexual intercourse involving the insertion of the partner's penis at posttreatment. Secondary outcomes include, e.g., improved non-intercourse penetration, sexual functioning, dyadic stress coping, reduced fear of sexuality and negative penetration-related cognitions. Fear of sexuality, penetration-related cognitions, and exercise intensity will be assessed as mediators of intercourse in the IG. Sexual dysfunctions of partners will be measured at baseline (T1) and investigated as a potential moderator of the primary treatment outcome. DISCUSSION Given the burden associated with GPPPD and the need for specialized treatment, there is a surprising lack of evidence-based treatment options. This study aims to assess whether Internet-based interventions could contribute to closing this treatment gap. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION German Register of Clinical Studies (DRKS): DRKS00010228.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Carlotta Zarski
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Institute of Psychology, Leuphana University Lüneburg, Lüneburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Berking
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - David Daniel Ebert
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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23
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Santerre-Baillargeon M, Vézina-Gagnon P, Daigneault I, Landry T, Bergeron S. Anxiety Mediates the Relation Between Childhood Sexual Abuse and Genito-Pelvic Pain in Adolescent Girls. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2017; 43:774-785. [PMID: 27911219 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2016.1266539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Previous research has demonstrated associations between child sexual abuse, anxiety, and genito-pelvic pain, but no study to date has examined whether sexual abuse may be associated with genito-pelvic pain through victims' elevated anxiety. The present study aimed to determine whether anxiety mediates the relationship between child sexual abuse and genito-pelvic pain. Using self-report questionnaires, data were gathered from 218 sexually active adolescent girls recruited from seven metropolitan high schools. As expected, results revealed a significant indirect effect of sexual abuse on the development of genito-pelvic pain through trait anxiety. This study thus suggests that anxiety may be one of the mechanisms by which child sexual abuse leads to an increased risk of developing genito-pelvic pain in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Isabelle Daigneault
- a Université de Montréal , Département de Psychologie , Montréal , Québec , Canada
| | - Tina Landry
- a Université de Montréal , Département de Psychologie , Montréal , Québec , Canada
| | - Sophie Bergeron
- a Université de Montréal , Département de Psychologie , Montréal , Québec , Canada
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24
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Corsini-Munt S, Rancourt KM, Dubé JP, Rossi MA, Rosen NO. Vulvodynia: a consideration of clinical and methodological research challenges and recommended solutions. J Pain Res 2017; 10:2425-2436. [PMID: 29070953 PMCID: PMC5640408 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s126259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Vulvodynia, an idiopathic chronic vulvar pain, is a prevalent genital pain condition that results in significant impairment to sexual, relational, and psychological functioning of affected women and their romantic partners. Despite its high prevalence, there remain gaps in knowledge and health care access for women coping with vulvodynia, given its varied clinical presentation and no widely accepted treatment protocol. The past several decades have seen important advancements in understanding vulvodynia and developing effective treatments; however, progress has been impeded due to clinical and methodological challenges in conducting research with this vulnerable population. This review presents a brief overview of vulvodynia correlates, consequences, etiology, and treatment, and then turns its attention to considering the clinical and methodological challenges that hinder vulvodynia research. Identifying these barriers alongside potential mitigating solutions is essential to developing empirically supported treatments for all women affected by vulvodynia, across all age and minority groups. Potential solutions will require researchers to broaden eligibility criteria, examine subgroups of women, and expand definitions of treatment outcomes, and may be best facilitated by more active collaboration among research groups and across relevant disciplines. Engagement in these solutions may contribute to more representative findings and the development and dissemination of empirically based treatment options for this complex pain condition.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Natalie O Rosen
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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25
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Corsini-Munt S, Bergeron S, Rosen NO, Beaulieu N, Steben M. A Dyadic Perspective on Childhood Maltreatment for Women With Provoked Vestibulodynia and Their Partners: Associations With Pain and Sexual and Psychosocial Functioning. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2017; 54:308-318. [PMID: 27100406 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2016.1158229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Childhood maltreatment is robustly associated with adult-onset vulvodynia, a common form of female genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder. However, little is known about the impact of childhood maltreatment on current sexual, psychological, and relationship adaptation for couples with provoked vestibulodynia (PVD). This study examined the associations between childhood maltreatment and sexual and psychosocial functioning and pain in women with PVD, the most common subtype of vulvodynia, and their partners. A total of 49 couples (Mage women = 27.80, SD = 6.05; Mage men = 30.04; SD = 6.48) with PVD completed the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ), as well as measures of sexual functioning, couple satisfaction, and anxiety. Women also reported on their pain during intercourse. Analyses were guided by the actor-partner interdependence model. Women's higher reports of childhood maltreatment were associated with their lower sexual functioning and higher anxiety. Partners' higher reports of childhood maltreatment were associated with their lower sexual functioning, lower couple satisfaction, and higher anxiety, as well as women's lower couple satisfaction and higher anxiety. Both women's and partners' higher reports of childhood maltreatment were associated with higher affective pain for women. Findings suggest childhood maltreatment experienced by women with PVD and their partners should be considered as part of treatment planning.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Natalie O Rosen
- b Department of Psychology and Neuroscience , Dalhousie University
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26
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van der Meijden WI, Boffa MJ, Ter Harmsel WA, Kirtschig G, Lewis FM, Moyal-Barracco M, Tiplica GS, Sherrard J. 2016 European guideline for the management of vulval conditions. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2017; 31:925-941. [PMID: 28164373 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.14096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2016] [Accepted: 12/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Vulval conditions may present to a variety of clinicians, such as dermatologists, gynaecologists and general practitioners. Women with these conditions are best managed by a multidisciplinary approach, which includes clear referral pathways between disciplines or access to a specialist multidisciplinary vulval service. Informed consent is a prerequisite for all examinations, investigations and treatments. Consent is particularly important for intimate examinations of the anogenital area, and a chaperone should be offered in all cases. All efforts should be made to maintain a patient's dignity. Depending on symptoms and risk factors, screening for sexually transmitted infections (STI) should be considered. If the patient presents with vulval itch, particularly if also complaining of increased vaginal discharge, vulvaginal candidiasis should be excluded. Sexual dysfunction should be considered in all patients with vulval complaints, either as the cause of the symptoms or secondary to symptoms, and assessed if appropriate. This guideline covers several aspects, such as diagnosis and treatment, of the more common vulval conditions (relatively) often encountered at vulval clinics, i.e. vulval dermatitis (eczema), psoriasis, lichen simplex chronicus, lichen sclerosus, lichen planus, vulvodynia and vulval intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - M J Boffa
- Department of Dermatology, Sir Paul Boffa Hospital, Floriana, Malta
| | - W A Ter Harmsel
- Department of Gynaecology, Roosevelt kliniek, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - G Kirtschig
- University Hospital of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - F M Lewis
- St John's Institute of Dermatology, Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital, London and Frimley Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - M Moyal-Barracco
- Department of Dermatology, Tarnier-Cochin Hospital, Paris, France
| | - G S Tiplica
- Dermatology 2, Colentina Clinical Hospital, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - J Sherrard
- Department of Sexual Health, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, UK
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Elmerstig E, Thomtén J. Vulvar Pain-Associations Between First-Time Vaginal Intercourse, Tampon Insertion, and Later Experiences of Pain. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2016; 42:707-720. [PMID: 26643915 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2015.1113589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
This study examines associations between the first experience of vaginal intercourse/tampon insertion and later experiences of vulvar pain. The study is based on questionnaire data from 1,259 Swedish female senior high-school students, aged 18 to 22 years old. Of these, 592 women reported present vulvar pain. Present vulvar pain was associated with first-time experiences of vaginal intercourse (pain, negative experience, against will) and with pain at tampon insertion. First-time experiences were also related to temporal aspects of present vulvar pain during vaginal intercourse (at the beginning, after a while during, and after). Implications of first-time experiences of vaginal intercourse for future symptoms of vulvar pain are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Elmerstig
- a Centre for Sexology and Sexuality Studies, Faculty of Health and Society, Malmö University , Malmö , Sweden
| | - Johanna Thomtén
- b Department of Psychology , Mid Sweden University , Östersund , Sweden
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Dunkley CR, Brotto LA. Psychological Treatments for Provoked Vestibulodynia: Integration of Mindfulness-Based and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies. J Clin Psychol 2016; 72:637-50. [DOI: 10.1002/jclp.22286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2015] [Revised: 11/17/2015] [Accepted: 02/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Lori A. Brotto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; University of British Columbia
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29
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Vulvodynia: Definition, Prevalence, Impact, and Pathophysiological Factors. J Sex Med 2016; 13:291-304. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2015.12.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 166] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2015] [Revised: 12/18/2015] [Accepted: 12/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Time Out from Sex or Romance: Sexually Experienced Adolescents’ Decisions to Purposefully Avoid Sexual Activity or Romantic Relationships. J Youth Adolesc 2016; 45:831-45. [DOI: 10.1007/s10964-016-0447-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2015] [Accepted: 02/19/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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31
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Al-Abbadey M, Liossi C, Curran N, Schoth DE, Graham CA. Treatment of Female Sexual Pain Disorders: A Systematic Review. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2015; 42:99-142. [PMID: 26036302 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2015.1053023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Sexual pain disorders affect women's sexual and reproductive health and are poorly understood. Although many treatments have been evaluated, there is no one "gold standard" treatment. The aim of this systematic review was to investigate what treatments for female sexual pain have been evaluated in clinical studies and their effectiveness. The search strategy resulted in 65 papers included in this review. The articles were divided into the following categories: medical treatments; surgical treatments; physical therapies; psychological therapies; comparative treatment studies; and miscellaneous and combined treatments. Topical and systemic medical treatments have generally been found to lead to improvements in, but not complete relief of, pain, and side effects are quite common. Surgical procedures have demonstrated very high success rates, although there has been variability in complete relief of pain after surgery, which suggests less invasive treatments should be considered first. Physical therapies and psychological therapies have been shown to be promising treatments, supporting a biopsychosocial approach to sexual pain disorders. Although most of the interventions described have been reported as effective, many women still experience pain. A multidisciplinary team with active patient involvement may be needed to optimize treatment outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miznah Al-Abbadey
- a Department of Psychology , University of Southampton , Southampton , United Kingdom
| | - Christina Liossi
- a Department of Psychology , University of Southampton , Southampton , United Kingdom
| | - Natasha Curran
- b Pain Management Centre, University College London Hospitals , London , United Kingdom
| | - Daniel E Schoth
- c Department of Psychology , University of Southampton , Southampton , United Kingdom
| | - Cynthia A Graham
- c Department of Psychology , University of Southampton , Southampton , United Kingdom
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Aerts L, Bergeron S, Corsini-Munt S, Steben M, Pâquet M. Are Primary and Secondary Provoked Vestibulodynia Two Different Entities? A Comparison of Pain, Psychosocial, and Sexual Characteristics. J Sex Med 2015; 12:1463-73. [DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Female Sexual Pain Disorders: a Review of the Literature on Etiology and Treatment. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s11930-015-0053-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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O’Sullivan LF. Sexual Function and Problems with Adolescents and Young Adults. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s11930-014-0035-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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Bergeron S, Likes WM, Steben M. Psychosexual aspects of vulvovaginal pain. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2014; 28:991-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2014.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2014] [Accepted: 07/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Boyer SC, Pukall CF. Pelvic examination experiences in women with and without chronic pain during intercourse. J Sex Med 2014; 11:3035-50. [PMID: 25243968 DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although pelvic examinations (PEs) are an important component of women's health, some women experience difficulty during PEs due to anxiety and pain. These difficulties may be heightened in women with chronic pain during sexual intercourse. Some evidence suggests that this population experiences pain and distress during PEs, but their experiences in this context have not been empirically investigated from a multidimensional perspective. AIMS The aims of this study were to compare the PE experiences of women with and without pain during intercourse and to examine predictors of negative experiences in each group. METHOD Women with vulvovaginal pain (n = 90), pelvic pain (n = 89), and women without current intercourse pain (n = 207) completed an online survey including sections assessing demographics, gynecological and medical history, and PE experiences. Respondents completed questionnaires assessing vaginal penetration cognitions and body image. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Participants rated their most recent PE on numerical scales for pain, embarrassment, anxiety, and the overall quality of the experience. RESULTS Women with pelvic and vulvovaginal pain during intercourse reported significantly more pain and anxiety during their most recent PE compared with the no pain group, and women with a higher number of lifetime gynecological diagnoses reported significantly more pain. Multiple regression analyses indicated that various predisposing, examination-related, and psychological factors predicted specific PE ratings in each group. CONCLUSIONS The results provide empirical support that PEs are more physically and emotionally difficult for women who experience chronic pain during intercourse. These findings have important clinical implications, as PEs are a critical part of complete reproductive care and play an essential role in the assessment/management of sexual pain, including Genito-Pelvic Pain/Penetration Disorder.
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Glowacka M, Rosen N, Chorney J, Snelgrove Clarke E, George RB. Prevalence and predictors of genito-pelvic pain in pregnancy and postpartum: the prospective impact of fear avoidance. J Sex Med 2014; 11:3021-34. [PMID: 25124648 DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is limited knowledge regarding the symptom profile of genito-pelvic pain in pregnancy and postpartum, and potential psychosocial predictors of this pain. Prior studies have reported a positive association between prepregnancy pain and postpartum genito-pelvic pain. Greater fear avoidance has been associated with increased genital pain intensity in women, unrelated to childbirth. This relationship has not been examined prospectively in a postpartum population. AIMS The study aims were to examine the symptom profile of genito-pelvic pain during pregnancy and at 3 months postpartum, and the impact of prepregnancy nongenito-pelvic pain and fear avoidance in pregnancy on genito-pelvic pain at 3 months postpartum. METHODS First-time expectant mothers (N = 150) completed measures of fear avoidance (pain-related anxiety, catastrophizing, hypervigilance to pain), prepregnancy nongenito-pelvic pain, childbirth-related risk factors (e.g., episiotomy), and breastfeeding. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Those reporting genito-pelvic pain in pregnancy and/or at 3 months postpartum answered questions about the onset (prepregnancy, during pregnancy, postpartum) and location (genital, pelvic, or both) of the pain and rated the intensity and unpleasantness of the pain on numerical rating scales. RESULTS Of 150 women, 49% reported genito-pelvic pain in pregnancy. The pain resolved for 59% of women, persisted for 41%, and 7% of women reported a new onset of genito-pelvic pain after childbirth. Prepregnancy nongenito-pelvic pain was associated with an increased likelihood of postpartum onset of genito-pelvic pain. Greater pain-related anxiety was associated with greater average genito-pelvic pain intensity at 3 months postpartum. CONCLUSIONS Results suggest that about half of women may develop genito-pelvic pain during pregnancy, which will persist for about a third, and a subset will develop this pain after childbirth. Prior recurrent nongenito-pelvic pain may enhance the risk of developing genito-pelvic pain postpartum, while greater pain-related anxiety in pregnancy may increase the risk for greater intensity of postpartum genito-pelvic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Glowacka
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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Thomtén J, Karlsson A. Psychological factors in genital pain: The role of fear-avoidance, pain catastrophizing and anxiety sensitivity among women living in Sweden. Scand J Pain 2014; 5:193-199. [PMID: 29913712 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjpain.2014.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2013] [Accepted: 01/11/2014] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Objectives One in five women under the age of 30 report recurrent genital pain and pain during sexual intercourse. Female genital pain negatively affects sexual and general health, as well as dyadic function and quality of life. Although the current field of research and clinical expertise in general agree upon a biopsychosocial conceptualization, there is still a lack of theoretical models describing the psychosocial mechanisms involved in the development of genital pain. Originally developed to outline the transition from acute to chronic back pain, the fear avoidance (FA) model has lately been proposed as a possible tool in illustrating the mechanisms involved in genital pain. However, only few studies have empirically tested the components of the FA model empirically. The aim of the present study is to examine fear avoidance beliefs, pain catastrophizing, and symptoms of depression and anxiety among women reporting genital pain, and to relate these concepts to sexual satisfaction/function and the characteristics of pain. Methods The study was a population-based study using a postal questionnaire administered to 4052 women (age 18-35). Of these 944 (response rate: 23%) took part in the study. Results Genital pain of six months duration was reported by 16.1% of the women. Women with pain reported elevated levels of symptoms of anxiety, fear avoidance beliefs, pain catastrophizing and anxiety sensitivity. Symptoms of anxiety also predicted pain in the explanatory model together with vaginal tension and fungal infection. Vaginal tension has previously been described as a fear-response to painful intercourse and the results thereby seem to give further support to viewing genital pain from a fear avoidance perspective. Furthermore, fear avoidance beliefs seem to be of similar importance as lack of desire for the experience of sexual satisfaction and could also predict pain during specific activities among women with pain. The results also indicate that sexual satisfaction is related to a specific pain-related fear, rather than a heightened level of general anxiety. Conclusions The study had a low response rate, but still indicates that genital pain is common and is associated with several aspects of fear and avoidance. In sum, the results support the FA model by giving strong support for fear reactions (vaginal tension) and fear avoidance beliefs, and moderate support for negative affect. In the model negative affect drives pain catastrophizing. Implications It seems that the experience of genital pain among women in the general population is common and could be associated with increased levels of anxiety and fear-avoidance beliefs. However, the associations should not be understood in isolation from physiological mechanisms but seem to indicate interactions between, e.g. fungal infections, negative appraisals of pain and symptoms, lack of sexual function and satisfaction and increased pain experience. It is possible that psychological mechanisms work in the transition from acute physiological pain to chronic psychologically maintained pain in terms of secondary reactions to, e.g. repeated fungal infections by adding emotional distress, fear of pain and avoidance behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Thomtén
- Center for Health and Medical Psychology (CHAMP), School of Law, Psychology and Social Work, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden.,Department of Psychology, Mid Sweden University, Östersund, Sweden
| | - Andreas Karlsson
- Department of Psychology, Mid Sweden University, Östersund, Sweden
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Fortenberry JD. Sexual Learning, Sexual Experience, and Healthy Adolescent Sex. New Dir Child Adolesc Dev 2014; 2014:71-86. [DOI: 10.1002/cad.20061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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O'Sullivan LF, Brotto LA, Byers ES, Majerovich JA, Wuest JA. Prevalence and characteristics of sexual functioning among sexually experienced middle to late adolescents. J Sex Med 2014; 11:630-41. [PMID: 24418498 DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Little is known about problems in sexual functioning among young people, despite the high rates found in adult samples. It is unclear which problems are most prevalent or how common sexual distress is for young people experiencing problems. AIMS This study aims to assess the prevalence, range, and correlates of sexual problems and distress among a sample of adolescents (16-21 years). METHODS Participants (mean age 19.2) were recruited from community and area high schools. Male adolescents (n = 114) completed online the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) and Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool (PEDT). Female adolescents (n = 144) completed the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). Both completed the Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS) and the measures of background, relationship characteristics, and sexual histories. MAIN OUTCOMES MEASURES Clinical cutoff scores on the IIEF, PEDT, FSFI, and FSDS were used to determine whether there was a significant sexual problem. RESULTS Adolescents reported extensive sexual experience, most in relationship contexts. Half of the sample (51.1%) reported a sexual problem; 50.0% reported clinically significant levels of distress associated with it. Similar rates of problems and distress were found among male and female adolescents. For the most part, adolescent characteristics, backgrounds, and experience were not associated with adolescents' sexual problems. CONCLUSION Sexual problems are clearly prevalent among adolescents, and distressing to many who experience them, emphasizing a strong need to develop programs to address this issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia F O'Sullivan
- Department of Psychology, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, NB, Canada
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Berry MD, Berry PD. Contemporary Treatment of Sexual Dysfunction: Reexamining the Biopsychosocial Model. J Sex Med 2013; 10:2627-43. [DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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Abstract
This article is part of a Special Issue "Puberty and Adolescence". Sexuality emerges as a major developmental element of puberty and the adolescent years that follow. However, connecting the sexuality that emerges with puberty and elements of adult sexuality is difficult because much adolescent sexuality research addresses the transition to partnered sexual behaviors (primarily coitus) and consequences such as unplanned pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. This review proposes a framework of an expanded understanding of puberty and adolescent sexuality from the perspective of four hallmarks of adult sexuality: sexual desire; sexual arousal; sexual behaviors; and, sexual function. This approach thus addresses important gaps in understanding of the ontogeny of sex and the continuum of sexuality development from adolescence through the adult lifespan.
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Thomtén J, Linton SJ. A Psychological View of Sexual Pain among Women: Applying the Fear-Avoidance Model. WOMENS HEALTH 2013; 9:251-63. [DOI: 10.2217/whe.13.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Aim: The purpose of this paper is to examine how well research findings on dyspareunia (intercourse pain) fit the fear-avoidance (FA) model on pain. Results: The evidence suggests that the experience of pain in dyspareunia functions similarly to the pain reported in other pain conditions. There are also accumulating data showing that the central mechanisms of the FA model, such as catastrophizing, fear, hypervigilance and disability, are central to the experience of sexual pain. However, there are also some potential differences between sexual pain and other pain conditions that demand further attention in terms of the role of the partner, specific emotional consequences of avoidance and the effect of hypervigilance on sexual arousal. Conclusion: The results demonstrate the relevance of the FA model in sexual pain. They also imply that treatment methods for fear and avoidance in other pain conditions offer new avenues for treating sexual pain problems in the clinic. Future studies should focus on expanding how the mechanisms in the FA model contribute to sexual pain, as well as how treatments based on the model may be applied clinically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Thomtén
- Center for Health & Medical Psychology, Department of Behavioral, Social & Legal Sciences – Psychology, Örebro University, Sweden
| | - Steven J Linton
- Center for Health & Medical Psychology, Department of Behavioral, Social & Legal Sciences – Psychology, Örebro University, Sweden
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